Formation Products-Clocks and Compass

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zarakand
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Formation Products-Clocks and Compass

#1 Unread post by zarakand »

I'm interested in purchasing a clock for my bike, and after a bit of googling came across Formation. While on their site, I also noticed they sold compasses, which would be great to have.

However, I was curious if anyone has had any experience with their products before I spend the $80 on the clock and compass. Thanks.


The Clock

The Compass
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#2 Unread post by Scoutmedic »

I'm curious as well. I've looked at Formotion as well as a couple others on eBay. These are the different vendors I've found so far:
Formotion
Riders Passion
D-Lee Engineering
Midnight Express

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#3 Unread post by DivideOverflow »

I haven't used any of those, but I can say that having a clock on the bike is nice! My VFR has one stock, and it is so much easier not having to stop to check the time. A compass might be nice too..
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#4 Unread post by Sev »

I don't know if this holds true for bikes as well as cars. But I was always taught that if you're going to use a compass get out of the car (while stopped) and walk 3 paces away. Because all that metal will interfere with the operation of the compass.

It seems to me that mounting a compass on the handlebars, next to the engine and electrical system MAY do the same thing. So i'd be a little hesitant about adding one.
Of course I'm generalizing from a single example here, but everyone does that. At least I do.

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#5 Unread post by zarakand »

The new 35MM 360 Moto Compass internal magnets are very strong. We did this because they are designed to be used in motorcycles and other powersport equipment that can incorporate a lot of metal and or other material that can produce false readings or even stop the compass from working properly at all.

The 35 MM 360 Moto Compasses strong internal magnets helps eliminate unwanted distortion from the surrounding metal on your vehicle but means that you have to be very sensitive when you turn the compasses compensating screws to calibrate your compass: a little is a lot on these settings.
That's a quote from their site, and it seems as though they have taken it into account that there will be inteference from the bike. However, I don't know if it's just marketing rubbish or just a good product. A shame no one has used this. I'm a little hesitant to spend $50 on the compass, though it would be very handy to have.
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#6 Unread post by Sev »

Well, for what it's worth males usually have a pretty good sense of direction. Stop, get off the bike, close your eyes and spin 360 degrees slowly. Open them back up, then look North. Works every time :D
Of course I'm generalizing from a single example here, but everyone does that. At least I do.

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